Greek leader rebukes Erdogan on anniversary of Turkish invasion of Cyprus

08:10 22/7/2024 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

On the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion and occupation of Cyprus, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis strongly condemned Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s provocative remarks, reaffirming Greece's steadfast

support for Cyprus.

Mr. Erdoğan had used the anniversary to make inflammatory statements, calling for international recognition of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the self-declared state in the northern part of Cyprus occupied by Turkish troops.

The Turkish leader praised the ongoing occupation as a "historical achievement" and urged the global community to accept the status quo.

“We will not be swayed by provocative rhetoric or threats,” Mr. Mitsotakis said in response.

“Our dedication to a just and lasting solution for Cyprus remains steadfast.”

The prime minister underscored Greece’s unwavering commitment to Cyprus’s reunification, saying that “The Greek spirit will continue to fight until Cyprus is reunified, until the wounds are healed, and stability and peace return to the island.”

“I do not forget!” he said. “These two words have shaped our lives, and with three more—'we unite, we persist, we fight'—we will continue with planning and cooperation until final justice is achieved.”

The event at the Presidential Palace featured a video presentation and an artistic tribute before the speeches by Mr Mitsotakis and the Greek Cypriot leader.

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